Hope Biosciences Research Foundation (HBRF) has been granted FDA authorization to initiate a Phase II clinical trial investigating the use of Hope Biosciences' adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (HB-adMSCs) in pediatric patients aged 2 to 16 suffering from juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). This marks the first FDA authorization for this cell type in treating JIA and represents HBRF's inaugural pediatric clinical trial.
JIA, previously known as Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, affects approximately 300,000 children in the U.S. and 3 million worldwide. The condition is characterized by chronic pain in both small and large joints, fatigue, and associated organ changes. Current treatments primarily focus on symptom management, incurring a substantial economic burden estimated at up to $30,000 per year.
Trial Design and Objectives
The Phase II clinical trial (NCT06623240) is designed as a randomized, double-blind, crossover study involving 66 participants at HBRF over 72 weeks. The active treatment period spans eight weeks, during which subjects will receive three infusions of HB-adMSCs at a bodyweight-adjusted dose. Following a twelve-week washout period, participants will undergo another eight-week period with three additional treatments. Approximately half of the participants will receive HB-adMSC treatment followed by placebo, while the other half will receive placebo first, then HB-adMSC treatment.
Potential Benefits of HB-adMSCs
"Participants in this trial have at least three joints affected, which means their daily life is significantly and measurably impacted by the disease," said Donna Chang, President of HBRF. "HB-adMSCs have shown promise in Rheumatoid Arthritis in adults, as well as in chronic musculoskeletal pain, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and lupus, all conditions with similarities to JIA. These cells have also been safely administered to multiple pediatric patients suffering from other conditions. We are hopeful this trial will affect real improvements in quality of life for these boys and girls, and create hope for the wider JIA community."
Founded in 2020, HBRF has secured FDA authorization for over 40 clinical protocols. The foundation focuses on exploring the therapeutic potential of high-volume, sustained application of adult stem cells for diseases lacking effective cures.
